Maryland officials clarify solo-kids policy

After outcry over one family's "free-range" parenting case, Maryland officials are clarifying their policy on children walking or playing alone outdoors, saying the state shouldn't investigate unless kids are harmed or face substantial risk of harm. The Washington Post reports that the new policy directive about the involvement of Child Protective Services is part of a public statement that will be issued Friday. The clarification comes after the state agency ruled out neglect in a case against Danielle and Alexander Meitiv for allowing their 10- and 6-year-old children to walk home in a Washington suburb in December. The "free-range" parenting advocates, who encourage independence, remain under investigation after their children walked home from another park in April. State officials say they don't want to trump parents' individual choices.